Bolivia has declared a state of emergency due to ongoing economic turmoil caused by anti-government protests that have resulted in a 50-day road blockade.
On June 20, President Rodrigo Paz announced the emergency measures during a live broadcast, stating that the government aims to lift the blockade and restore social order. He emphasized that the state of emergency is not intended to restrict the lives of citizens but to free Bolivia from those who are blocking roads and harming the public for political gain.
The declaration grants the government the authority to deploy military forces to reopen key roads occupied by protesters. The emergency measures take immediate effect, and the president must notify Congress within 24 hours. Congress will then have 72 hours to decide whether to approve the declaration.
Currently, supporters of former President Evo Morales have completely blocked major roads across Bolivia. This has left numerous trucks stranded and caused severe shortages of essential goods, including food, fuel, and medicine, particularly in major cities like La Paz.
Since taking office in November 2022, President Paz has faced challenges to his pro-market reform policies, including controversies over land legislation, the elimination of fuel subsidies, and rising prices, which have weakened his support base. In response, labor groups and marginalized communities have mounted nationwide protests, increasing pressure for his resignation.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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